Cyprus Healthcare System on the Verge of Burnout: Doctors Can’t Handle the Pressure

Cyprus’s healthcare system is facing a severe staffing crisis. Nearly one-third of medical workers show symptoms of depression, and one in ten is seriously considering leaving the profession.

The main reason is chronic overload. Many doctors and nurses work 50–60 hours per week, often combining shifts in public and private hospitals. Some staff are employed on temporary contracts without stable guarantees.

Compared to the rest of Europe, Cyprus continues to experience a significant shortage of medical professionals. The country has about 80 healthcare workers per 10,000 people, while the EU average exceeds 120. This leads to constant overtime and increased risk of errors caused by fatigue.

The crisis is worsened by aggressive patient behavior. Surveys show that up to 90% of medical staff have faced verbal abuse, threats, or even physical aggression. Doctors admit they feel unprotected and emotionally drained.

Another issue is the aging workforce: around 38% of specialists are over 55, and young doctors are reluctant to join due to low pay and high workload. Cyprus’s medical staff well-being index (according to WHO standards) is below the EU average, indicating a growing level of professional burnout.

The World Health Organization has described the situation as a “crisis of sustainability” and warned that without urgent action, the quality of healthcare may rapidly deteriorate. Recommended measures include reducing overtime, introducing psychological support programs, combating violence in clinics, and encouraging young professionals to enter the system.

Local experts note that while the GESY healthcare system expanded access to medical services, it was not accompanied by a proportional increase in workforce capacity. This has intensified the workload, and some doctors are now considering moving abroad.

If the government fails to improve working conditions and protect medical personnel, Cyprus could face a severe doctor shortage and the weakening of its entire healthcare system.